The various styles
In the Neolithic period the shape and decoration of the pots changed over time. These different styles can be divided into groups, which can be dated with relative precision. Although pottery in prehistory was conservative and determined by tradition, it was also sensitive to change and to currents of fashion. That is why pottery is an invaluable tool for dating. Within a 600-year period (3400-2800 BC) we know of a total of seven different stylistic phases.